jcccnc / programs / youth development / nikkei community internship program

About the Program

The Nikkei Community Internship Program is a statewide program, which offers college students an opportunity to obtain experience supporting the work of various community organizations while increasing their understanding of contemporary issues affecting Japanese Americans. Coordinated by the Japanese Community Youth Council (JCYC) in Northern California and the Little Tokyo Service Center (LTSC) in Southern California, the goal of the program is to support the development of the next generation of community leaders.

The NCI program supports the leadership development of participants through:

1. Giving young Nikkei greater exposure to opportunities and needs in the Japanese American community
2. Promoting interaction and networking between existing Nikkei organizations and institutions
3. Connecting young Nikkei with mentors in the Japanese American community, who inspire and peak their interest in the work of community organizations
4. Providing a fun learning experience that creates energy and a desire to participate in the Japanese American community and other communities to which they belong

The program consists of an eight-week summer internship where interns are placed at organizations such as the Japanese Community and Cultural Center of Northern California, National Japanese American Historical Society, Nichi Bei Times and the Japanese American Citizens League. Each intern earns a $2,000 scholarship for their participation in the program in addition to receiving training and experience in community service.

During the eight-week program, one day of each week is reserved for the interns to visit various Japanese American organizations and groups to expand their knowledge of available services and resources. The interns also meet and dialogue with various community leaders.

For more information, please contact:
Erika Tamura at 415-202-7909 or etamura
or visit our website at www.nikkeiyouth.org